Subhi Agrawal
On Thursday, Oct. 3, aspiring photographer Liz Hatton from Harrogate, Yorkshire, shared with the Today program on BBC Radio 4 her experience of being hugged by Kate Middleton at Windsor Castle. This heartwarming moment occurred after she photographed an investiture ceremony conducted by Prince William.
Hatton Shocked by Kate and William’s Arrival
On Oct. 2, Hatton, 16, stated that it was “a massive shock” when both Kate and William came into the room at the Castle following William’s presentation of honors to ordinary individuals and celebrities who have accomplished remarkable feats.
“None of us were really expecting it necessarily — except for my little brother apparently!” added Hatton, who has been diagnosed with a desmoplastic small round cell tumor, a rare and aggressive type of cancer. She has been given a prognosis of six months to three years to live.
Hatton had been invited by the palace to photograph the investiture as part of a series of memorable experiences. Afterward, she and her family had a private meeting with the royal couple.
In a report by BBC, she said, “Talking to them was amazing ‘cause it was like talking to anyone, like just a normal person. There was no sort of grandeur about them, there was just humanity and kindness.”
William and Kate Praise Liz in Heartfelt Post
Following the meeting on Oct. 2, William and Kate shared their own reactions on their social media channels. “A pleasure to meet with Liz at Windsor today. A talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both,” the Prince and Princess of Wales wrote.
“Thank you for sharing your photos and story with us. ❤️,” they added. The post was signed “W&C,” with the initials of their first names, adding a personal note to show the message came directly from them.
Hatton shared on her Instagram Story on Oct. 2, beneath a photo of herself hugging the Princess of Wales: “Such a lovely, genuine and kind people, I’m over the moon that my family and I had this experience.”
The Princess of Wales announced in a Sept. 9 video message that she had completed chemotherapy treatment. Kate had previously revealed in March that she was undergoing cancer treatment and has largely remained out of the public eye throughout 2024 to focus on her health.
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